Smithers invests in new triple quadrupole gas chromatography mass spectrometry instrumentation
Smithers has invested in a new triple quadrupole gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) instrument at its analytical services laboratory in Akron, Ohio.
Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) separates volatile and semi-volatile components in mixtures and generates mass spectral data to aid in characterizing and identifying those components. The technique is very sensitive and yields useful data for components present at trace levels. GC-MS is a fundamental analytical technique for extractables and leachables studies as well as for detecting and identifying impurities originating from starting materials, synthetic chemistry reactions, process equipment, and more.
Triple quadrupole gas chromatography mass spectrometry is a more advanced form of GC-MS and offers a number of advantages over conventional single quadrupole GC-MS. A triple quad employs tandem mass filters which are capable of more complex experiments than can be accomplished with a single quad instrument. The triple quad is significantly more sensitive, with up to two orders of magnitude greater sensitivity than a single quad instrument. This level of sensitivity is critical when analyzing for toxic compounds such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and genotoxic impurities. For quantitative applications, such as leachables studies, the triple quad is able to achieve much greater sensitivity and specificity. The triple quad can also generate structural fragments of analytes that are very useful in structural elucidation of components in a mixture.
“What makes triple quad GC-MS unique is the broad array of sophisticated experiments that just aren’t available on a single quad instrument. Also, the ability to select specific ions significantly reduces the level of background noise so we can accurately identify and measure trace impurities at extremely low levels,” said Paul Cummings, General Manager, Analytical Services, Smithers. “With this instrument, we can offer a broader range of analytical capabilities to our valued clients.”
The analytical services laboratory in Akron, Ohio, opened its doors in July of 2017. Its sister lab is located in the United Kingdom.
“Paul and his team are committed to building strong customer relationships and understanding exactly what our clients need,” said Nat Leonard, Group President, Life Sciences, Smithers. “I am proud of their dedication to evolving this laboratory so we can continue to help our clients achieve their goals.”